Romans 14:19 Meaning: Pursue Peace, Build Each Other Up
So then, let’s follow after things which make for peace, and things by which we may build one another up.
Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
So then let us follow after things which make for peace, and things whereby we may edify one another.
So, then, the things of peace may we pursue, and the things of building up one another;
So then let us pursue the things which tend to peace, and things whereby one shall build up another.
Meaning in one sentence
Paul urges Christians to actively pursue peace and mutual edification, especially when disagreements arise over non-essential matters.
Context
Paul is writing to a church divided. Some believers feel free to eat any food; others eat only vegetables out of scruple. Some observe special days; others treat every day alike. The arguments have grown heated. In the verses just before this one, Paul reminds them that God’s kingdom is not about eating and drinking but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Now he draws the conclusion. Instead of fighting over opinions, they should chase after the things that create peace and strengthen each other. It is a simple sentence that lands like a gentle hammer.
Key Words
The Greek word for follow after is diōkō. It means to run hard after something, the way you would chase a runner you need to catch or an enemy you need to overtake. Peace is not something that happens if you just leave people alone. You have to pursue it. Then there is oikodomē, the word for building up. It originally meant constructing a house. Every stone, every beam, every nail matters. When Paul says build one another up, he pictures Christians as living stones being fitted together into a temple. Each act of patience, each choice to yield on a non-essential, is like adding another stone. The goal is not just getting along. It is growing together into something strong and beautiful.
How Christians Read This Verse
Christians across traditions agree this verse is a centerpiece for church unity. Matthew Henry sees it as an antidote to the quarrels of the day, calling believers to prefer love over liberty. John Calvin warns that peace without edification can become harmful indulgence; true peace always seeks the other person’s good. Wesley notes that peace and edification are closely joined and that practical divinity tends to both, while controversy often weakens them. The Cambridge Bible observes that Paul’s exhortation here does not contradict his stern warnings against foundational error. Peace does not mean tolerating false teaching, but it does mean handling disagreements over non-essentials with care.
A common misunderstanding
Some read this verse as a command to keep the peace at any cost, even when someone’s spiritual health is at risk. In fact, Paul pairs peace with edification. The goal is not merely to stop arguing but to actively strengthen each other. True Christian peace does not ignore problems; it seeks solutions that build faith and love. As Calvin put it, we must exercise discretion so that our kindness actually helps, not harms.
Living This Out
Think about a disagreement you are having with another believer right now. It might be about worship style, a political view, or what is appropriate on a Sunday. This week, instead of trying to win the argument, try a different aim. Ask yourself: what action or word would actually build this person up? Would listening instead of correcting create more peace? Would backing off on a minor point show more love than proving you are right? Paul is not asking you to abandon truth. He is asking you to pursue the other person’s good.
Main takeaway: Christians are called to actively chase after peace and to strengthen one another, especially when they disagree on matters of personal conviction.
For Families
For ages 5, 8
When you want to be right, sometimes it is better to be kind. Try to say something that makes your friend feel stronger, not smaller. That is building them up.
For ages 9, 12
Have you ever argued with a friend about something that really didn’t matter, like which game to play or what movie to watch? Paul says to go after peace. That means sometimes you let the other person choose. But he also says to build each other up. So after you choose, find a way to help your friend grow, like saying something encouraging about their idea. Peace and growth go together.
Questions People Ask
Does Romans 14:19 mean we should never confront sin?
No. Paul is addressing disputes about 'disputable matters', things like food and days that the Bible neither commands nor forbids. Earlier in his letters, he strongly confronts serious sin and false teaching (Galatians 1, 1 Corinthians 5). Here he calls for peace and edification on issues where faithful Christians can disagree.
What does 'follow after things which make for peace' look like practically?
It means intentionally choosing words and actions that create harmony rather than division. You might listen longer before responding. You might give up a personal preference so a weaker believer is not confused or hurt. As Barnes wrote, Christians have more in common than they differ on, and focusing on great shared objectives, spreading the gospel, doing good, makes smaller disagreements fade.
Is 'edification' just about making people feel good?
No. The Greek word oikodomē means building a house. Edification is the work of strengthening someone's faith, character, and love for God and neighbour. It can involve gentle correction, encouragement, teaching, or simply setting a good example. The goal is that the other person grows more like Christ, not just that they feel comfortable.
Why does Paul connect peace and edification so tightly?
Because peace without edification can become lazy tolerance that lets people stay weak in faith. And edification without peace can become harsh correction that tears people down. Both are needed. Calvin noted that we must exercise discretion so that our efforts to serve one another actually further their salvation. Peace and building up work together.
For pastors & researchers
Greek interlinear, 8 commentaries & word study